And indeed there will be time To wonder, "Do I dare?" and…
““And indeed there will be time To wonder, "Do I dare?" and, "Do I dare?" Time to turn back and descend the stair, With a bald spot in the middle of my hair— (They will say: "How his hair is growing thin!") My morning coat, my collar mounting firmly to the chin, My necktie rich and modest, but asserted by a simple pin— (They will say: "But how his arms and legs are thin!") Do I dare Disturb the universe? In a minute there is time For decisions and revisions which a minute will reverse””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The speaker questions his courage to act, fearing judgment and the consequences of daring to change the world.
In simple terms: He wonders if he should act despite fear of criticism.
Key Takeaway
Embrace boldness despite fear of judgment.
Themes
courage
self‑doubt
existentialism
Mood
contemplative
anxious
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal decision making
- artistic creation
- career change
- social activism
Key Concepts
psychology
literary modernism
Questions to Reflect On
- What holds you back from daring?
- How can you balance doubt with ambition?
A Different Perspective
The poem’s introspection may not translate to practical action.